The 6 Best Car Organizers to Eliminate Clutter on Road Trips (2024)

Updated on 10/26/22

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Ideal for those who need a backpack for their car, this organizer holds everything you need for days on the go. It’s formatted like a backpack but holds way more, from large laptops to three-ring binders. It hooks around the back or front seat with adjustable side streams and top closure, and it stays hugged to the seat to make getting in and out an interference-free endeavor. And this organizer has a phone holder dedicated to the cause of keeping your mobile in one spot, so it’s always within reach.

Don't let the simple construction fool you, these 2 x 10 inch plastic pockets solve two problems at once. They provide storage in your car that didn't exist before and they keep small thin items from sliding through the gap between the seat and center console. They are ideal for anything you want within easy reach such as your phone, hand sanitizer, and loose change. Installation is as easy as sliding the pockets in the gap between the seat and center console and we love that they come with adhesive foam pads for added traction.

This do-it-all organizer gives kids an art station, road trip game table, desk, and shelf for car trips—keeping them entertained and your travels less stressful. It’s made to last road trip after road trip, with reinforcements at stress points (like handles and straps), and the drawing surface can hold an on-the-go lunch or book. Ready to pull over? Just fold it up and zip it closed—it totes easily over little shoulders, too.

It might look like a cooler—and it's as waterproof as one—but this covered container is a cargo organizer made to hit the road. Made from rugged 1680 waterproof Oxford cloth, this organizer is built to last, with sections reinforced by density board and pearl wood; the company even claims you can stand on it. Reinforced aluminum handles make for easy lifting and heavy loads. The organizer collapses easily for out-of-the-way storage in the car or garage when it's not in use. There's a second bonus for those who travel solo and with families: you can half-fold the organizer to fit into the passenger seat.

If you or a loved one is the type to chuck stuff straight in your trunk (no judgment), this organizer is a lifesaver. Made from durable material with compartment bottoms reinforced with durable base plates, this trunk organizer can hold everything you need while you’re on the go (or spare parts and auto supplies). Plus, it comes with a well-engineered tie strap system that hooks into your trunk like a cargo net, so it won’t slide around if you take a sharp turn. Want things closer at hand? No problem—this organizer clips into backseat child seat anchors, or it can ride shotgun, thanks to straps that wrap around the back of the seat.

Available in various colors to complement or contrast your car’s interior, this backseat organizer is a secure way to keep backseat belongings safe and compartmentalized. A bevy of pockets fits everything from pencils to water bottles to tablets—and eliminates all that backseat clutter along the way. Plus, it keeps the back of your front seat protected from the undersides of stray shoes (if kids put their feet up on it, all you have to do is wipe it clean, and you’ll be good to go again—way easier than cleaning car upholstery).

If you need a sidekick in your front seat to get you through the day, count on this car organizer to help. It’s made from high-quality polyester and has plenty of capacity for the biggest items on your daily errands, from an extra-large cup holder to space for two one-gallon jugs of milk or juice (great for on your way home from the grocery store), as well as pockets for hand wipes and trash. It’s perfect for anyone frustrated about things flying off the front seat when you hit traffic.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What should I keep in my car organizer?

  This depends on personal preference and who will be riding in your car most frequently. If you're a minimalist at heart, you might stick to a couple of charging cables, hand sanitizer, tissues, wipes, and emergency supplies you deem necessary. If you want to be prepared for anything and everything, consider purchasing several car organizers to store your things and maybe add in some blankets and towels. If you're traveling with kids, you might want to bring along some crafts, fun car games, and snacks to ensure they are entertained and have a full stomach.

• How should I clean my car organizer?

  What material or materials is your car organizer made of? You'll want to begin by removing your car organizer from your car before you attempt to clean it. For plastic car organizers, you can use an all-purpose cleaner and cloth. Consider cleaning with gentle dish soap, a soft-bristle brush, and cool water for organizers made of oxford or polyester. Then, allow to air-dry. Be careful of any padding or metal components. However, you should always check the product's tags or the retailer's site for more detailed instructions to prevent any damage.

• How many car organizers do I need?

  Are you someone who needs a spot for everything? Or are you ok with a bit of mess? The more organizers you have, the more organized your car will be. It's also important to consider the function of each organizer. To optimize organization, consider buying organizers for your front seats, back seats, and trunk instead of a couple of front seat organizers.

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